Wolds Wildlife Park (Horncastle, Lincolnshire)

If you’re staying at Wren Farm Retreats in Hogsthorpe and fancy an afternoon where you can leave the lodge, stretch your legs and meet some wild friends, then a visit to Wolds Wildlife Park near Horncastle is a brilliant idea. Set in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds countryside, this friendly wildlife park offers a good range of animals and is close enough for a comfortable drive, making it a relaxed stop for couples, families or groups.

What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at Wolds Wildlife Park you’ll sense its smaller-scale, personal feel compared to major zoos. The setting is rural and peaceful. You’ll find a surprisingly wide range of animals – lions, tigers, hyenas, bears, and more familiar creatures such as alpacas, goats and llamas.

For families, there’s an outdoor play area for children to unwind while adults enjoy a coffee or ice cream from the café overlooking it. Because the park is compact and easy to navigate, it’s ideal for younger children who may tire easily – and for adults who prefer something less strenuous.

Animal talks and feeding times are part of the experience, and they’re well worth catching. Watching the keepers interact with the animals gives you a real sense of how well cared for they are. It’s worth checking the daily schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss a highlight like the bear or big cat feeding.

The park also has a tipi-style indoor seating area, so even if the weather turns, there’s somewhere warm and comfortable to relax.

Best Time to Visit / Insider Tips

• Arrive early: The first hour after opening is often quieter, and animals are usually more active.
• Check seasonal hours: In winter, last entry is earlier, so plan to arrive before mid-afternoon.
• Dress for the weather: The Lincolnshire Wolds can be breezy and changeable, so layers are a good idea.
• Bring snacks or a picnic: There’s a café and snack kiosk, but you can also enjoy your own food at the outdoor tables.
• Perfect for short visits: It’s not an all-day zoo, so plan for 2–3 hours on-site, making it a great half-day adventure.

How Far Is It from Wren Farm Retreats

The drive from Wren Farm Retreats in Hogsthorpe (PE24 5PE) to Wolds Wildlife Park in Horncastle (LN9 5LJ) takes around 30–35 minutes, depending on traffic. The route takes you inland through scenic countryside, gradually climbing into the Lincolnshire Wolds. It’s an easy drive with plenty of rural charm, making it a pleasant outing for the morning or afternoon.

Facilities & Accessibility

• Accessibility: Flat, well-maintained paths suitable for pushchairs and mobility scooters.
• Toilets: Clean and accessible restrooms on-site.
• Café: Offers hot and cold food, drinks, snacks and ice creams. Indoor tipi seating available.
• Play Area: A secure outdoor play zone for children up to around 15 years old.
• Parking: Free, right next to the entrance.
• Dog Policy: Not confirmed as dog-friendly – best to check before bringing pets.
• Extras: You can often spot the owners and keepers around the park, happy to share stories about the animals and how the park began – a nice personal touch that sets it apart from larger attractions.

Combine Your Trip / Nearby Attractions

Make a day of it by exploring the area around Horncastle. The town itself is well-known for its antique shops and cosy cafés – perfect for a post-park wander. The surrounding Lincolnshire Wolds offer lovely countryside drives and walking trails with rolling views.

If you’re in the mood for something coastal later in the day, head back towards the coast and enjoy a sunset walk along Skegness or Chapel St Leonards beach. You’ll have the best of both worlds – wildlife and seaside all in one day.

Staying Nearby at Wren Farm Retreats

After a day exploring Wolds Wildlife Park and the Lincolnshire Wolds, there’s nothing better than returning to the peace of Wren Farm Retreats. Relax in your private hot tub, watch the sun set over the fields, and plan your next Lincolnshire adventure. With spacious lodges and a calm countryside setting, it’s the perfect base for exploring local gems like Horncastle and beyond.

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